Representing the United States Marine Corps is an honor for anyone who serves, but for some, duty calls for more. The Silent Drill Platoon (SDP) is a 24-man group that performs drills without a word spoken all over the globe. Known for their discipline and iconic routines, you can find the SDP proudly representing the honor at parades and ceremonies throughout the USMC. Related read: Makua Valley Army Live Fire Drills Permanently Going Away

Do Members of the Silent Drill Platoon See Combat?

Yes, members of the Silent Drill Platoon can see combat. The Marine Corp Silent Drill Platoon is a skilled 24-man rifle unit. They demonstrate Marine pride and professionalism through silent drill movements. Additionally, they train as Infantry during the off-season. The SDP executes impressive rifle inspections, including intricate spins and tosses. Experienced team members aspiring to become Rifle Inspectors undergo evaluations by previous-season Rifle Inspectors to prove their skills. Experienced Marines that become Rifle Inspectors are responsible for preserving and passing on the platoon's unique knowledge, history, and traditions alongside the Platoon Drill Master. You’ll find the “Marching Twenty-Four” showcasing their skills in parades and ceremonies worldwide. When selecting members from the Marching Companies, the Marine Corps pays close attention to appearance and ceremonial drill skills.

Does the US Marine Silent Drill Platoon Use Real Guns?

Yes! Weighing a bit more than 10.5 lbs., the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performs its routines with the iconic M1 Garand rifle featuring attached bayonets. Used for both WWII and the Korean War, this iconic firearm has certainly made history for itself with the Infantrymen. Suggested read: When Marines Scream "Oorah" They're Actually Imitating This Sound

Capt. Kelsey Hastings Is the First Female Leader of the SDP

After graduating from the Naval Academy in 2017, Hastings served as a field artillery officer with the 1st Battalion, 12th Marines in Hawaii. In 2020, she relocated to Marine Barracks Washington and underwent Ceremonial Drill School. Marine Corps Capt. Kelsey M. Hastings started her career as an Artillery Officer. Now, she is leading the SDP as the first woman to do so. Hastings held positions as a Marching Platoon Commander, and a Marching Company Executive Officer before being chosen as the 2023 Silent Drill Platoon Commander. On the idea of being the first woman to hold the position, Capt. Hastings maintained dignity, poise, and humility when speaking to DoD News, stating: “At the end of the day, I just feel honored to be a potential role model for both men and women who want to be a Marine. I wouldn't necessarily say I take that title as a big honor. Yes, I am the first, but at the same time, I'm Team Commander and I've done this before. So, I want to do my best for my Marines and the mission. It's an honor, but it's not the reason that I'm here. It's not the reason I'm leading. I want to lead Marines and be selfless in that regard.” To see the Silent Drill Platoon schedule 2024 and to learn more about the direction of the group under the leadership of Capt. Kelsey Hastings, one of the best ways to keep up-to-date on the events happening with SDP is by visiting its official Instagram profile.

How to Be in the Silent Drill Platoon

To be a part of the Marching Twenty-Four, you’ll need to be hand-picked out of the School of Infantry at either Camp Lejeune or Camp Pendleton. An exceptional level of discipline, honor, and self-control are all necessary attributes if you are considering joining the Marine Silent Drill Platoon. Another important skill any member of the Silent Drill Platoon will need is communication. Especially, because there is a lack thereof during performances. Practices might have verbal communication but during the actual demonstrations, as the name suggests, you won’t hear a word. Read next: The Silent Service: Submariners and Sailors We Love to Tribute